WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD) — An Ionia County trainer who uses miniature horses as therapy animals is looking to expand after receiving a service award.

Jen Groters runs the Michigan Horse Driving School near Saranac. The school uses miniature horses to provide positive therapy for both emotionally at risk and special needs children. Using some 30 miniature horses, the children learn farm management skills and perform farming chores to foster self-confidence.

“We work on getting carts made for special needs children that makes it easier for them to drive a miniature horse,” Groters said.

At an annual event held Wednesday at Marge’s Donuts in Wyoming, the Grand Rapids chapter of AMBUCS presented Groters with the Marge Wilson Community Service Award and a check for $2,500 to help her buy a new modified cart for special needs children.

Groters said she was honored by the recognition and is grateful for the money. She said the need is great and the therapy shows promise.

“This isn’t about physical therapy. This is about mental health therapy and accomplishments,” Groters said.

AMBUCS has honored more than 10 people with the Marge Wilson Community Service Award, named after the owner of Marge’s Donuts, since 2013.